How to Stratify Echinacea Seeds
Stratifying is the process of treating a seed to fluctuating chilling temperatures for an extended period. Some species are only able to germinate after undergoing this process, which mimics what happens in nature when they self-sow. Echinacea angustifolia, a native North American flowering herb, is one of the plants that requires its seeds to chill for four months before germination. You have the option of stratifying your Echinacea seeds indoors or outdoors. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Echinacea angustifolia seeds
- Compost (optional)
- Screen mesh
- Sterile sand
- Clean plastic bag
- Water
- Freezer
- Refrigerator
Instructions
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Outdoor Stratification
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Sow Echinacea angustifolia seeds on the seedbed during the fall to early winter. Don't place them in furrows; broadcast the seeds on the soil surface.
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2
Cover the seeds with a thin layer of compost or soil. There's no need to water them if you're stratifying them outdoors.
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3
Place a screen mesh over the seeded area, burying its edges, to prevent wildlife from disturbing the seeds.
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Remove the mesh at least four months later and start irrigating your Echinacea plants to germinate seeds in spring.
Indoor Stratification
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Place some sterile sand in a clean plastic bag. You need just enough to bury your Echinacea seeds.
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Moisten the sand evenly without creating a soggy environment inside the bag.
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Transfer your Echinacea seeds to the plastic bag, pushing them into the sand slightly.
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Move your seeds to the freezer for half of the week and then let them spend the second half in the refrigerator. Continue to alternate between storing your Echinacea seeds in the freezer and refrigerator for the next four months. At the end of this period, your Echinacea seeds are ready for sowing.
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References
Resources
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